Smoothback Angelshark 5-Year Review (2025)

Under section 4(c)(2) of the Endangered Species Act (ESA), we are required to conduct a review of all listed species at least once every 5 years. In 2016, NOAA Fisheries listed the smoothback angelshark (Squatina oculata) as endangered under the ESA. In 2024, we initiated the 5-year review, which was conducted by the NMFS Office of Protected Resources. Based on the best available data, we concluded that no change to the listing status of the smoothback angelshark is warranted at this time.